PHOENIX — You may not believe something this green and peaceful exists in the middle of a metro but there is an exotic escape that's not far from your downtown office.
The Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix is an authentic 3.5 acre garden that will amaze you at every turn as you stroll the scenery. The stunning setting features hand-picked rocks, stone foot bridges, flowing streams, waterfalls, colorful koi fish ponds and dozens of varieties of plants from towering ficus trees to carefully cultivated bonsai.
There's also a tea garden and tea house where you can take part in regularly scheduled tea ceremonies.
The Japanese Friendship Garden exists because of the City of Phoenix's partnership with its Sister City Himeji, Japan.
You can visit any day Tuesday through Sunday (even if just during your lunch break) or plan to visit during one of the garden's weekly workshops or events. You can see the full schedule at japanesefriendshipgarden.org/events-workshops.
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